The land surrounding Puget Sound is home to 4 million people who live, work, and play in our region. The need for homes, businesses, roads, and agriculture must be balanced with ecosystem protection. Forest and riparian areas provide important habitat for many species and reduce the rate of polluted runoff flowing into Puget Sound.

Land development and cover indicators measure how well we are directing our region’s ongoing growth to protect our best remaining natural areas and working forests. There are four indicators for this Vital Sign: Forest Loss, Riparian Restoration, Growth in Urban Growth Areas (UGAs), and Conversion of Ecologically Important Lands.